Us Congress House Bill HB3616

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/29/25
• Refer: 5/29/25
• Refer: 6/3/25
• Report Pass: 6/25/25

Caption

Reliable Power Act

Impact

If enacted, HB3616 will amend section 215 of the Federal Power Act to require FERC to undertake annual long-term assessments. These assessments must evaluate the capability of the bulk-power system to meet energy demands and ensure adequate reliability. Among other stipulations, the commission must analyze the generation resources mix, transmission infrastructure, and demand trends, thereby formalizing a systematic approach to energy resource management and regulation.

Summary

House Bill 3616, known as the Reliable Power Act, is aimed at enhancing the reliability of the bulk-power system in the United States. The bill mandates the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to conduct thorough reviews of regulations that could influence the dependable operation of the bulk-power system. This legislative effort seeks to address concerns related to the adequacy of electric energy supply and the potential risks involved with generation shortfalls during both normal and extreme weather conditions.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB3616 include concerns over potential bureaucratic delays introduced by regulatory reviews and the balance between federal oversight and regional autonomy. Some stakeholders may argue that the added layer of assessment could impede timely responses to emerging energy challenges. On the other side of the debate, proponents emphasize that a rigorous review process is necessary to prevent future energy crises and to maintain system integrity, underscoring the increasing pressures posed by extreme weather events and growing energy demands.